We recently caught up with Shane Stevens, also known as @thethatchingguy on Instagram to learn more about him, his passion of thatching, and how he came to own his own thatch roofing company.
I'm sure you will have noticed some stunning cottages all over the country with the most beautiful roofs made out of straw and reeds, however, these roofs are becoming less and less frequently made. Without people like Shane, this beautiful traditional art form we could lose thatched roofs completely.
Thatching is an ancient roofing technique that uses dry vegetation such as straw, water reed, sedge, rushes, and heather to create a durable and weather-resistant roof covering. This method has been employed for centuries across various cultures, particularly in regions with abundant natural resources and a tradition of craftsmanship.
The process of thatching involves layering bundles of the chosen material on a roof structure, which are then secured with twine or staples. The layers are laid in a specific way to ensure that water runs off the roof efficiently, preventing leaks. The thickness of the thatch and the skill of the thatcher are crucial in achieving a long-lasting roof, which can often last up to 50 years with proper maintenance.
Thatching is valued for its aesthetic appeal, providing a rustic and charming look that blends harmoniously with natural surroundings. It also offers excellent insulation, keeping buildings warm in winter and cool in summer. Despite its benefits, thatching is labor-intensive and requires specialist skills, making it a less common choice in modern construction. However, it remains popular in heritage conservation and among those seeking eco-friendly and sustainable building options. The thatched roofs seen in picturesque villages and historic sites continue to be a testament to this enduring and beautiful craft.
Q&A With Shane
Q: How did you get into thatching?
A: Old crafts was something always of interest to me, thatching came to mind first because I love the outdoors so they came hand in hand, I got in contact with a local thatcher and became his apprentice, 10 years later I was a master have my own company.
Q: What materials are used for thatching?
A: There a various different materials we use such as straw and water reed, they are the 2 main materials, along with sedge which is a type of grass which is used for the ridge, hazel is used to hold down the ridge
Q: How long does a typical thatched roof last? And why would someone choose a thatched roof over another method/ material?
A: A thatched roof can last around 30-45 years with maintenance around every 10 years or so, depending on different factors like pitch of the roof or if it gets weathered more one side than another, positives about thatched roofs are not only they are stunning to look at they are very good for insulation so warm in the winter and cool in the summer
Q: What is the process of thatching?
A: A short story on the process is that the straw is first grown by a farmer then cut and supplied to the thatcher, the roof is stripped and all materials can be recycled, fireproof membrane is added with new battens screwed down, new straw/reed is applied to a depth of 14 inches, it’s then topped off with a straw/sedge ridge for the final weather proofing
Q: What is the best thing about working as a thatcher?
A: Best things about working as a thatcher is getting to work outside on beautiful cottages, also doing the transformation itself and seeing the end result is very rewarding
Q: What was the best roof you made and why?
A: I don't have one roof I prefer the most, they are all different in their own ways and proud of every one.
Be sure to check out Shane's Instagram and give him a follow - @thethatchingguy